Speaking to the Jewish Chronicle, David Cameron said Tottenham fans should not be prosecuted for using the term.

The Prime Minister said: "There's a difference between Spurs fans self-describing themselves as Yids and someone calling someone a Yid as an insult.

"You have to be motivated by hate. Hate speech should be prosecuted - but only when it's motivated by hate."

David Cameron said Tottenham fans should not be prosecuted for using the term. Credit: PA Wire

David Baddiel said Mr Cameron did not understand the wider context of the word "Yid".

The Comedian said that the Prime Minister would not let another racist term "pass his lips":

Tottenham Hotspur fans insisted chants of "Yids", "Yid Army" and "Yiddos" are part of their tradition.

David Baddiel acknowledged that Spurs fans were divided on the issue, but insisted that Jewish people should be given the "same thought, significance and protection" as other ethnic minorities against racist language:

Tottenham Manager Andre Villas-Boas backed the Prime Minister's view believing it was what the "Spurs fans want to hear".

The club said it would consider whether the chants by its fans were appropriate, insisting they would "consult widely" on the issue.